During the late 1970's George Lucas released what was to be one of the greatest film sagas ever made called Star Wars IV: A New Hope and this took the world by storm. Later two more films were released creating a trilogy, and a continuing story throughout. It followed Luke Skywalker through his path to be a Jedi, his fight against the dark side and their leaders and ultimately find his real father. The second film was called Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back and the third Episode VI: Return of the Jedi.

After a long break, following Lucas’ divorce (which led to him losing a fortune) he decided to make a prequel. E.g. tell the tale of how the first film came about. So in 1999, a prequel to A New Hope was released and this was to be the story of the first episode of the franchise. Star Wars I: A Phantom Menace became a huge hit with fans. Many of the original watchers of the movies from the 70’s were now adults and could embrace the storylines once more and also perhaps introduce their own children to a much loved time from their own childhood memories.

This film followed the life of Anakin Skywalker, who ultimately became the most feared leader of the Dark Side, Darth Vader. To complete the saga the second and third episodes were released. They were: Attack of the Clones where the Jedi Master teaches his apprentice Obi Wan Kenobi, as they protect Queen Amidala, and on this journey they meet Anakin Skywalker a slave with strong powers of The Force. The Final conclusion was Revenge of the Sith. The Sith were characters operating on the dark side of the force. Here you see Anakin transforming into Darth Vader as a result of an alliance with a Sith Lord.

All these stories can be viewed in full on DVD, which are available to buy here. Play the stories out in real life with the figures and space vehicles including ARC 170 or to give it its full title Aggressive ReConnaissance-170 Starfighter, a bomber used in Clone wars. Or the AT-AT which is an instantly recognisable Star Wars vehicle and also known as All Terrain Armoured Transport or Imperial Walker used along with the TIE Fighter by the Imperial Army. Other fighters include the Jedi Starfighter meaning any vehicle manned by the Jedi and the Millennium Falcon the famous starship of Hans Solo and Chewbacca from the earlier films. Build Star Wars spaceship models from scratch with either the Lego or Revell sets to create your own Star Wars masterpieces for display or play.

Star Wars would not be Star Wars without mentioning the Electronic Lightsaber. This is a weapon of the Jedi and the Sith. For a Jedi it takes incredible skill and attunement with the force to be able to use it. You will certainly know what these look like from the films, a handle emitting a shaft of light and energy at the touch of a button. Well we can’t of course provide that, but the Hasbro Lightsaber toy is an excellent interpretation and even hums!

Lego have a number of interesting sets and games in this range including battle packs, bases and many other packs featured in Clone Wars. Whether you are new to Star Wars or a massive fan, knowing everything there is to know about the subject, you are sure to find a toy or model to enjoy here. May the force be with you!